Hearty and Nutritious Blended Vegetable Soup Recipe
**Hearty and Nutritious Blended Vegetable Soup Recipe**
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. A blended vegetable soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and delicious to taste.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
Begin by washing and chopping all the vegetables. This will ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. **Add the Vegetables:**
Add the carrots, celery, potato, zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and cauliflower to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion and garlic.
4. **Simmer the Soup:**
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. **Blend the Soup:**
Once the vegetables are cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
6. **Adjust Seasoning:**
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. **Serve:**
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
**Nutritional Benefits:**
This blended vegetable soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal. The variety of vegetables provides a wide range of nutrients, including vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from bell peppers, and potassium from potatoes. The use of olive oil adds healthy fats, while the absence of cream or dairy keeps it light and suitable for vegan diets.
**Conclusion:**
This hearty and nutritious blended vegetable soup is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or seeking a healthy option for lunch or dinner, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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